In the News - August 2008
Motto for summer: 'Just add water'
MARION, Ark. - Water is the single most important nutrient for maintaining
good health. Although it's conveniently available most everywhere, many people
fail to drink enough water to stay adequately hydrated. During the hot summer
months, it's especially important to drink enough water to support vital bodily
functions.
VeEtta Simmons, Marion County extension agent with the U of A Division of
Agriculture, said, "Our bodies can survive for months without some nutrients,
but can live for only a few days without water. Water deprivation can kill
faster than the lack of any other nutrient, because all body functions require
water to operate."
Our bodies are made up of 50 percent to 75 percent water. "Water is an
essential nutrient because our bodies cannot produce the amount of water that is
necessary for survival," said Simmons. "Drinking six to eight cups of water
daily is a good idea, but the amount of water a person needs depends on their
body's energy demands."
The average adult needs between eight to 12 cups of water daily.
"Water needs are increased for people living in hot and humid climates, such
as is found in many parts of Arkansas," she said.
Individuals that engage in high levels of physical activity also require more
water than the typical recommended daily requirement. "People that are very
active will often require more than eight full cups of water each day," Simmons
said.
In addition to quenching thirst, water performs the following functions in
our bodies:
- Carries other nutrients throughout the body
- Is the main component of body fluids
- Protects against heat exhaustion and helps keep the body
temperature normal
- Helps prevent constipation and carries away waste
- Keeps the skin, body, eyes, mouth and noise moist
- Bathes our joints so they can move smoothly
Simmons said, "If you ignore your thirst, you could become dehydrated." Signs
that you may not be getting enough water include:
- Dry Mouth
- Thirst
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Increased body temperature
- Constipation
Simmons said, "Find creative ways to increase your intake of water if you're
not getting enough. People can try increasing their consumption of fruits and
vegetables, since many of them have a high water content. They might also try
adding a twist of lemon to their water for added flavor."
For more information on nutrition and wellness, please contact your county
extension agent or visit www.uaex.edu. The Cooperative
Extension Service is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture.
August 1, 2008
Media Contact: Lamar James
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2187 or (501) 753-0207
ljames@uaex.edu
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